Compression fractures? How vertebroplasty can help

Struggling with debilitating back pain from a spinal fracture? We chat with DR SURESH B BABU, Senior Consultant in Diagnostic Radiology and Interventional Radiology at International Orthopaedic Clinic, who explains how an innovative treatment called vertebroplasty could offer some much-needed relief for compression fractures in the spine.

What exactly is vertebroplasty and how does it help with spinal compression fractures?

Vertebroplasty is a medical procedure designed to relieve pain caused by compression fractures in the spine, particularly those resulting from osteoporosis, cancer or trauma. It’s a minimally invasive technique in which a special bone cement is injected into a fractured vertebra to stabilise the bone and reduce discomfort. This procedure has become an important option for patients who haven’t responded to conservative treatments such as bed rest, pain medication or physiotherapy.

How do compression fractures happen – and who’s most at risk?

Compression fractures occur when a vertebra in the spine collapses, typically due to weakened bones. Osteoporosis, a condition that decreases bone density, is the leading cause of compression fractures, especially in older adults. These fractures can lead to significant pain, reduced mobility and a decreased quality of life. In more severe cases, they may cause spinal deformities and complications with internal organs due to posture changes.

Walk us through a vertebroplasty procedure.

Vertebroplasty was first developed in the late 1980s and has since gained widespread use. The procedure is typically performed by an interventional radiologist. It’s done under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition and preference. Using imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy (a real-time X-ray), the physician inserts a needle through the skin and into the fractured vertebra. Then, a medical-grade acrylic bone cement, usually polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), is injected into the bone. The cement hardens quickly, stabilising the compression fracture and often providing immediate pain relief.

What are the key benefits?

One of the main benefits of vertebroplasty is its rapid recovery time. Many patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days and some experience significant pain reduction almost immediately after the procedure. The minimally invasive nature of vertebroplasty also reduces the risks associated with more invasive spinal surgeries, such as infections and long recovery periods.

Are there any risks associated with vertebroplasty we need to know about?

Yes, vertebroplasty is not without risks. Potential complications include cement leakage, which may irritate surrounding tissues or, in rare cases, lead to nerve damage. There is also ongoing debate in the medical community about the procedure’s effectiveness. Some studies have questioned whether vertebroplasty offers significant long-term advantages over placebo treatments or conservative care, particularly in patients with less severe pain.

Who is a good candidate for vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is a valuable option for specific patient populations, especially those with severe, debilitating pain that has not responded to other treatments. Proper patient selection is crucial. Physicians must use detailed imaging and medical history to determine whether a patient’s fracture is recent and symptomatic enough to benefit from the procedure.

What’s the takeaway for patients considering this procedure for compression fractures?

Vertebroplasty offers an effective, minimally invasive solution for stabilising spinal fractures and relieving pain, particularly in individuals with osteoporosis-related compression fractures. While not suitable for everyone, it can significantly improve quality of life when applied appropriately. As with all medical procedures, a thorough consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to weigh the benefits and risks and to determine the best course of treatment.

International Orthopaedic Clinic
#08-20, Farrer Park Hospital, Connexion, 1 Farrer Park Station Road
6253 7111 | drsureshbabu.com.sg ioc-ortho.com | enquiry@ioc-ortho.com

This article about International Orthopaedic Clinic and vertebroplasty for compression fractures first appeared in Expat Living July 2025. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!

To make the most of living in Singapore, read our latest City Guide here for free!